Looking for advice on rental rates, average/expected returns in this area and also anyone who might be interested in partnering or acquiring either of these contracts from me.

I am not sure exactly what you are looking for, but if it is to acquire properties make sure you are doing your due diligence and know the fair market value for selling, ROI if utilizing buy and hold strategies and know your repair costs.

Rents in the $900+ range, $700 range for MF as well as pretty high demand for retail and office spaces.As others have stated as the market continues to improve the cost to acquire these properties is continuing to rise.

Start by acquiring 2 to 3 units and occupy the units you purchase and learn how to manage your business and your paying customers.

It was going to be mostly sweat equity and I figure we could have it ready to rent by the time we had $15,000 total into it.However, our target area changed after we acquired it and we decided that this property didn't "fit" anymore and we're just unloading it.

It cash flows like a monster and it doesn't cost much to acquire.  

I currently have a mortgage on a Townhome and am looking to acquire a second home,  I will be renting out the townhome when we move into the new home for almost double our current mortgage. 

To keep the banks and their protocols out of the deal, I was willing to pay 90-ish% of FMV with 10% down as long as they pencil.  26 of my units I acquired with SF.FMV is the number we need.  

If you can position yourself to acquire properties like this - you will see increased cash flow and equity no matter what state you are investing in. 

Yes, I have had to put up a notice within a month of acquiring my first MFH.